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Overview of Whittier

Located 12 miles southeast of Los Angeles, the city of Whittier has been a gateway to the City of Angels since the 19th century. Named after Quaker poet and newspaper writer John Greenleaf Whittier, the city has always possessed a small town charm even though it is located so close to one of the largest cities in the world. According to information from the U.S. Census Bureau, the city is home to more than 85,000 residents. If you are looking to raise a family in a welcoming community close to everything Los Angeles has to offer, then Whittier apartments for rent are an excellent option for you.

Living in Whittier, CA

The lands of Whittier were once personally owned by the King of Spain. It wasn't until 1868 when 160 acres of public land in the area were granted to a German immigrant named Jacob Gerkens through the Homestead Act that Whittier began its modern development. The land changed owners several times but was eventually acquired by Quakers in 1887, and they built a small farming community.

Soon afterwards, a small land grant was given for the building of a university in the area and soon after, Whittier College was established. By 1906, it was one of the premier colleges in the Los Angeles area, attracting many Los Angeles residents to the community. After World War II, housing shortages in southern California gave Whittier its biggest rise in population. After the subdividing of orange groves began, the town made room for a new civic center and the city introduced its first elected council in 1955. After 1961, the town was officially annexed as part of the Greater Los Angeles area.

Since its beginnings, Whittier has been a thriving residential community that has respect for its past but an eager vision for its future. With stellar city planning and a balance of economic, social and cultural activities, this community is showing no signs of slowing down.

Whittier Work and Study

Whittier College has been a mainstay in the community since before its incorporation. Complete with graduate and undergraduate studies, the college boasts a reputable law school as well. What makes it different from other universities in the Los Angeles area is its commitment to small class sizes, nationally-recognized curriculum and caring faculty. If you are looking for Whittier apartments for the upcoming semester, make sure you find the perfect place before classes start because many students flock to the area during this time.

According to Whittier's 2011 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report, the city has an unemployment rate that is significantly lower than other areas in the Los Angeles area. Some of the largest private employers in the area include Interhealth Corporation, Bright Health Physicians and Johnson Controls Inc., making Whittier a healthcare hub for the Greater Los Angeles community.

Rentals in Whittier, CA and Cost of Living

Ask any Californian and they will tell you that living in the Los Angeles area does not come cheap. Since Whittier is a suburb of such a large metropolis, the cost of living is higher than the U.S. average, a similar predicament for many cities in the Golden State. According to information from city-data.com, the median gross rent in the area was $1,129 per month in 2009. However, the median household income was more than $6,000 more per year than the average Californian, so Whittier still remains one of the more affordable neighborhoods in the Los Angeles area.

Whittier Attractions and Special Events

Nestled in the rolling Puente Hills, one of the best places in the entire Los Angeles area to catch a glimpse of the dazzling city skyline is at Hellman Park, located in town. Besides the breathtaking views of Sycamore Canyon and the entire region, there are challenging hiking and horseback riding trails that feature many beautiful flowers and California brittlebrush.

Catalina Island is another wonderful place for outdoor adventure. With peaks reaching 2,000 feet above sea level, this breathtaking oasis is a great place to get away from the jostle of the city.

If you are looking for an apartment for rent or a house rental in Whitter, Cal., search for rental properties at Rent.com®.